This year's tournament was supported and operated by Lakes Football Club with officials and field setups providing an avenue to fundraise for our community code.
About 1500 visitors travelled, slept and dined in Rotorua for five to six days, yielding a healthy economic return to our city alongside the obvious benefits of team sports for our rangatahi.
The 87th version of the Kurangaituku Netball Tournament was hosted over the past three weekends at the Westbrook courts with nearly 100 teams visiting our city.
About 1000 visitors spent two nights in Rotorua as they enjoyed our facilities after a two-year gap because of Covid.
Mary Thompson and the Rotorua Netball Association continue to deliver this amazing, iconic legacy event.
Raukura 1st XV Rugby have every reason to celebrate after securing the Super 8 title this season.
Ten of their players were recognised by being selected to attend the Under 18 Chiefs development camp next month.
Captain Brooke Mitchell leads the group, which includes Maraki Aumua, Lio Sagata, Harold Rounds, Waisake Salabiau, Sione Tupou, Maloni Kunawave, Ta Hamana Te Aute, Max Hutchings and Jai Tamati.
A bit of tough news from abroad with Rotorua's own 18-year-old Lachie Stevens-McNab crashing out in the Downhill Mountain Biking World Champs in France.
He missed the last two races and still finished third in the Junior Men's series.
He will be desperate to recover from his back and arm injuries in time for Crankworx Rotorua in November.
The Waibop Football Youth Premier Division concluded with Raukura (third) and John Paul College (fourth) competing admirably in this highly competitive competition.
Josh Taverndale and Kailyn Trask lead the JPC team whilst the youth of Raukuru will be an exciting prospect for the next season as they look to challenge the top-performing Tauranga Boys' College.
Last month's Dancing for Hospice event was an amazing fundraising event for the city and Hospice.
What is not widely known is the event also supports our community sports with several staff required to assist with setup, cleanup and catering services.
Community athletes from rugby, cricket, hockey and football assisted with the delivery while raising funds for their respective codes.
If you have any community sport stories and news, please contact Crispian.stewart@eves.co.nz as we look to profile your sport and local athletes.
- Crispian Stewart is a Rotorua sports enthusiast
